Coast’s Choice: Warwickshire
We’ve reached Shakespeare country in the next stage of our journey around the UK’s counties, better known as the picturesque region of Warwickshire. In addition to being the birthplace of Britain’s most famous bard, Warwickshire is also known for its strong tradition of motor vehicle manufacturing, which arose from the area’s strong industrial heritage.
As Shakespeare’s hometown is one of the county’s best known attractions, the Coast team has recommended some of the other places you might like to visit within the county.
Coombe Country Park
For a slice of beauty and utopia, pay a visit to Coombe Country Park just outside Coventry. These beautiful gardens and woodland span more than 500 acres and have taken ten centuries to develop in their present state.
A designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, Coombe Country Park is also on the English Heritage’s register of historic parks and gardens. Its bird hide is the perfect spot from which to view one of the largest heronries in the county, and the combination of open space, formal gardens and children’s play areas mean there is something to keep visitors of every age entertained.
The park is open daily although it is closed to the public during the evenings. Admission is free although there is a charge for car parking. More information is available through Coventry City Council.
Nearest caravan site: 4.4 miles
Heritage Motor Centre
Follow the history of the British motorcar from the 1890s to the present day, taking a close look at unique vehicles and mouth-watering supercars. The Heritage Motor Centre begins with a ‘time road’ charting the changing role that cars have played in everyday family life, with period music and references to historical events bringing the journey to life.
You can also pay tribute to the importance of the UK to world motoring in the ‘making British cars’ exhibition, while the ‘under the skin’ feature guides you through the inner workings of the motor vehicle. Plus, the centre regularly welcomes temporary exhibitions and events focussing on particular manufacturers or periods of history.
If you need a bit of fresh air, the museum features a miniature roadway, children’s playground and Land Rover experience.
The Heritage Motor Centre is open daily from 10am-5.00pm. Entry costs £11 for adults and £8 for children – click here to find out more.
Nearest caravan site: 3.8 miles
Warwick Castle
Widely regarded as the country’s greatest medieval experience, Warwick Castle is both a fun and educational way to spend the day. Its rich history is brought to life with interactive experiences, demonstrations and acting performances, while the grounds have been turned into beautiful landscape gardens.
Among the castle’s highlights are the state dining room – commissioned by Francis Greville in 1763 and home to royal diners including George IV, Edward VII, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert – and the Merlin Dragon Tower, inspired by the BBC television series.
Aspiring royals can dress up in finery and climb the princess tower, while brave warriors can witness the spectacle of live action jousting.
Warwick Castle is open all year round and tickets are priced at £30.60 for adults and £25.80 for children, although discounts are available if you book in advance. Full details and prices are featured on the official website.
Nearest caravan site: 4.9 miles
Webb Ellis Rugby Football Museum
Shoemaker James Gilbert created the first rugby footballs in 1842 and today the town with the same name showcases its important role in the foundation of the sport.
Located opposite Rugby School, the museum is housed in the first workshop where Gilbert manufactured his rugby footballs and houses a huge collection of international rugby memorabilia. In 2009 it underwent a major refurbishment and was reopened by England rugby captain Martin Corry.
In addition to priceless artifacts that will fascinate any rugby fan, the museum charts the history of the game and recreates many of the techniques that were used in the production of the original rugby footballs.
Although it is free to enter, Webb Ellis Rugby Football Museum is unstaffed and therefore visitors should call up in advance to check availability. Information on visiting the museum can be found here.
Nearest caravan site: 1.6 miles
Rollright Stones
Situated on the Warwickshire/Oxfordshire border, Rollright Stones is a sacred site at the top of a hill that can be traced back to 4000 BC.
The main feature is a circle of stones referred to as the King’s Men, beside a group of smaller, leaning stones known as the Whispering Knights. These groups are accompanied by a solitary stone monolith called the King Stone.
Legend has it that the stones are the petrified remains of a king and his knights, all of whom failed to meet a challenge set by a witch they encountered on their travels. In the 19th century people would chip pebbles from the King Stone as a good luck charm but today it is mostly an attraction for history enthusiasts and those with an interest in the spiritual world.
Click here to find out more about the myths behind Rollright Stones.
Nearest caravan site: 3.0 miles
Wherever you’re travelling to this summer, make sure your leisure vehicle is protected by an up to date caravan insurance or motorhome insurance policy. Our expert sales team is more than happy to give you a competitive quotation – contact them on Freephone 0800 614 849 or click here.